Positioning for Leadership in Hypertension Treatment
Boston Scientific has announced a $540 million acquisition of SoniVie, maker of the Tivus ultrasound-based renal denervation (RDN) system. This move strengthens its position in the evolving RDN space, currently led by Medtronic’s Symplicity Spyral and Recor Medical’s Paradise systems. With 1.3 billion hypertension patients worldwide, the race to provide effective alternatives to medication is intensifying.
Tivus System: Differentiation & Clinical Promise
The Tivus system uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to ablate renal sympathetic nerves, providing 360° sonication for more uniform nerve disruption. Early trials have shown 8.2 mmHg reductions in systolic blood pressure at six months with no major adverse events. The ongoing THRIVE trial will further assess its efficacy in 300 patients with uncontrolled hypertension, with FDA approval possible by late 2026.
Strategic & Competitive Landscape
Boston Scientific’s investment underscores ultrasound’s emerging dominance, with studies showing greater blood pressure reductions compared to radiofrequency-based RDN. Meanwhile, Medtronic is advancing a hepatic denervation program, while Recor Medical expands indications for its Paradise system. With CMS evaluating reimbursement for RDN in 2025, securing coverage could be a game-changer.
Boston Scientific’s bet on SoniVie positions it for long-term growth in the $3.5 billion RDN market, but success hinges on trial outcomes, reimbursement decisions, and execution in a rapidly evolving field.
Follow MEDWIRE.AI for updates on the future of hypertension treatment.
